The Gold Coast & District Rugby Union (GCDRU) was established in 1974 to govern the sport in the region. Over the years, new clubs were formed, creating the current local competition.
The Gold Coast’s rugby union history can be traced back to 1964. A group of local enthusiasts formed a team that debuted in the Brisbane Suburban competition in 1965. The team, known as the Gold Coast Eagles, found early success, winning the Brisbane Sub District Premiers in 1965 and 1966.
A major milestone for Gold Coast rugby union was the formation of the Gold Coast Breakers in 1996. The team was created to provide a pathway for talented local players who had been commuting to Brisbane to play in a stronger competition. The Breakers joined the Queensland Premier Rugby competition in 1997 and won the premiership in 2004. In 2013, the club partnered with Bond University and was eventually restructured and renamed the Bond University Rugby Club, which continues to compete in the Queensland Premier Rugby competition.